This isn't a traditional story with a plot. Instead, think of it as a long, detailed letter from a pioneer. William Folsom arrived in the St. Croix River valley when it was barely mapped. The book is his life's work, chronicling fifty years of transformation. He writes about founding towns, building the first sawmills, and serving in the early territorial legislature. He tells us about the people he knew—other settlers, Native leaders, businessmen—and the disputes over land, money, and power that shaped the region.

Why You Should Read It

You read this for the raw, unfiltered voice. Folsom isn't a polished historian looking back; he's a participant writing it down as he lives it. His perspective is practical, sometimes opinionated, and full of specific details that modern histories often smooth over. You get a real sense of the hustle and the hardship, the boom of the lumber industry, and the slow, messy process of creating a community from nothing. It makes the history of the Upper Midwest feel personal and immediate.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who want to get beyond textbook summaries, or for anyone with roots in Minnesota, Wisconsin, or the Dakotas. It's also great for readers who love primary sources and diaries. Be warned: it's dense with names and local events. This isn't a breezy read, but for the right reader, it’s a treasure—a direct conversation with a man who helped build a corner of the country.